Managed Deep Agents - Tools
Summary
This video details how to extend the functionality of a managed deep agent by implementing custom tools. Tools allow agents to interact with external systems (like databases or proprietary APIs) beyond built-in capabilities. Custom tools are defined as standard Python/TypeScript functions decorated with `@tool` and require detailed docstrings, which guide the Large Language Model (LLM) on how and when to use them.
Key takeaways
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Purpose of Tools
Tools give agents capability by allowing interaction with the outside world, such as looking up data in databases or taking actions via external APIs. Built-in tools (e.g., web search) are provided by the underlying model, while custom tools address specific organizational needs.
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Defining Custom Tools
In Python, a custom tool is defined as a function decorated with `@tool` from `LangChain tools`. The function's name becomes the tool name, its parameters are what the LLM must fill out, and the docstring serves as the primary description for the agent.
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Integration Process
2:00
To use a custom tool, define it in a separate file (e.g., `tools/lookup.py`), and then import and pass the function reference into the agent definition script.
Technical details
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Tool Definition Requirements
0s
A custom tool requires three elements: 1) The `@tool` decorator (from `LangChain tools`), 2) A function signature defining necessary parameters, and 3) A comprehensive docstring. This docstring is crucial as it informs the LLM about the tool's purpose and required inputs.
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Tool Implementation Example
150s
The process involves creating a function (e.g., `lookup_customer`) in a dedicated file, decorating it with `@tool`, and then importing this function into the main agent script to expose its capabilities.
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Agent Execution Flow
210s
When an agent is run (e.g., using `MDA dev`), it automatically lists all available tools, including built-in ones (like File Workspace Tools) and custom ones (like the CRM tool). The LLM uses the provided description and parameters to correctly invoke the function.
Mentioned resources
Channel & topics
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